Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal reignite the screen in ‘La Máquina’

A powerful reunion after two decades

Two decades after their iconic debut in “Y Tu Mamá También” and over a decade since “Casa de Mi Padre,” Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal reunite in Hulu’s first Spanish-language series, La Máquina. Both actors also serve as executive producers for this compelling drama, which dives deep into the intense world of boxing. The narrative circles around Esteban “La Máquina” Osuna (Bernal), an acclaimed boxer grappling with his legacy.

The plot thickens in Las Vegas

The limited series kicks off in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, just minutes before Esteban’s bout against younger contender Protasio (Mercito Gesta). Amid the Vegas glamour, Esteban’s manager and best friend, Andy (Luna), is engrossed in the city’s distractions. Andy, who also appears drastically altered by Botox, scrambles with his brother-in-law Saúl (Andrés Delgado) to find Esteban’s lucky drink. After a frantic search that comes up empty, it is Esteban’s ex-wife Irasema (Eiza González) who saves the day, ensuring Esteban is ready for his fight. However, tragedy strikes quickly as the scene cuts to Esteban waking up in an ambulance, his neck immobilized by a brace.

Back to Mexico City: Desperation and schemes

Two months post-defeat, the narrative shifts to Mexico City. Andy, styled in a retro Hugh Hefner wardrobe and flaunting a face swollen with fillers, is on a mission to revive Esteban’s career. To broker a rematch against Protasio, Andy resorts to blackmail. But Esteban is far from fit – his stamina is shot, sobriety questionable, and he suffers from hallucinations.

Despite Esteban’s compromised state, they manage to pull off the rematch, with Esteban securing a win by knockout. Yet, it’s soon revealed this victory wasn’t due to his prowess. A shadowy organization known as Otras Personas had fixed the fight, warning Andy that Esteban must lose the welterweight championship or face dire consequences.

Complex themes and varied tones

La Máquina juggles a multitude of characters, storylines, and a fluctuating tone, making it a dense viewing experience. The central theme of a fractured friendship between two men fuelled by their personal demons stays strong but is occasionally overshadowed by side plots. The third episode, With the Fishes, highlights this complexity when Esteban discovers Andy’s hidden dealings with Otras Personas. This leads to further attempts by Esteban to escape his fate, which blend reality with his erratic hallucinations, often muddling the storyline.

Character dynamics and stylistic choices

Certain subplots like Esteban’s fleeting romance and Andy’s intricate relationship with his overbearing mother, Josefina (Lucía Méndez), add color but detract from the primary narrative. Their interactions, particularly around Andy’s marriage and low fertility, bring unexpected humor, differing from the generally serious tone of the series.

As the episodes unfold, it becomes apparent that Otras Personas have manipulated Esteban’s life far more than he’s aware. When Irasema re-engages with her journalism career to uncover boxing corruption, she unearths explosive truths about government and economic underpinnings, as well as Esteban’s past.

Despite flaws, La Máquina shines

Despite its narrative complexity and occasionally disjointed tone, La Máquina provides several high points. Luna and Bernal’s chemistry remains as electrifying as ever. The insights into the boxing world are enthralling, and the intertwined storylines of friendship, legacy, and deception captivate viewers.

All six episodes of La Máquina are set to premiere on Hulu on Oct. 9. Whether you’re a fan of gripping sports dramas or just love seeing Luna and Bernal share the screen, this series promises to deliver.

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